The Little Green Hut on the A49 near Much Birch closes

The Little Green Hut, which operates from a lay-by near Much Birch, said it had taken the difficult decision to close for good following a break-in last weekend. The business said the incident left owners facing a mix of emotions, including sadness, shock and disappointment.

In a statement shared with customers, a spokesperson said they were heartbroken that criminals had not only damaged a local business but had also affected the livelihoods of its staff.

"The past week has been a mixture of sadness, disappointment, shock and disbelief," they said.

The spokesperson added that they were disappointed to be unable to serve their regular customers and expressed frustration over what they believed was a lack of consequences for those responsible.

After weighing up the future of the diner, the owners concluded that reopening would leave them vulnerable to being targeted again.

The spokesperson said they feared it would only be "a matter of time" before another break-in occurred, adding that it was a risk the business simply could not afford to take.

The closure brings an end to eight years of trading, during which the diner built up a loyal customer base and became a familiar stop for motorists travelling along the busy route.

Despite the circumstances surrounding the closure, the business used its final message to thank those who had supported it over the years.

The spokesperson said many customers had become friends during the diner’s time in business and paid tribute to the staff who had helped make it a success.

They added that the past eight years would not have been possible without the support of both customers and employees, thanking them for their loyalty and backing throughout the venture.